PA-001 - 10-day Deep Dive: Submerging Into the Expertise of Pediatric Dentistry

The Pediatric Dentistry Preceptorship Program replicates a mini-residency for fourth year students during a 10-day rotation. Experiential learning thrives through immersive simulation, case-based study and hands-on patient care, spanning from operating room practice to adeptly managing dental emergencies. A notable program aspect is its service-learning component, fostering collaboration with occupational therapy. Competency assessments, emphasizing critical thinking, include virtual cases in an oral examination style, a station-based Objective Structured Clinical Examination and a specialized case-based assessment addressing individuals with special health care needs. Student self-reflection is encouraged. The initial evaluation suggests that this pre-doctoral teaching model is effective and adaptable across disciplines.